Fireplace Ash Safety

Proper fireplace ash removal and disposal is important for preventing fire, both at your home and at the Bonneville County Solid Waste sites. Please see the following Dos and Do Nots for safe handling of fireplace ash.

Do Not

• Do Not immediately remove hot ashes from the fireplace. When possible, allow ashes and embers to cool in the area where you had the fire for several days. These devices are designed to contain their heat safely.
• Do Not dispose of ashes, burnt firewood, or embers outside your home, in dumpsters, or landfills without proper storage and disposal methods. Wind or other elements can send them airborne which can ignite surrounding structures and/or landscapes.
• Do Not dispose of ash in storm drains, water bodies, or sewers.
• Do Not dispose of ash directly into a plastic or paper bag or any other flammable container such as a plastic bucket or cardboard box.
• Do Not use a vacuum cleaner to pick up ashes. Standard household vacuum cleaners are not designed to withstand fine ash particles or heat.

Do

• Do cool ashes completely (can take 24-48 hours) before scooping.
• Do transfer ashes to a metal ash bucket, or other non-combustible container with a tight-fitting lid and handle.
• Do use a metal short-handled ash shovel for controlled scooping.
• Do use heat-resistant gloves for protection from residual embers.
• Do use a fireplace brush or scoop set to gather fine residue safely.

Once Fully Cooled and Contained

• Bag in double-lined paper or combustible bags.
• Dispose of with regular waste (if permitted by local guidelines).
• Never dump ash or embers directly into dumpsters, public containers, or the landfill.